Thousands of Jewish American protesters have taken part in a series of civil disobedience actions across the United States, calling for a ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict. These progressive Jews have been shutting down train stations, highways, and government buildings with their rallying cries of "Not in our name," "never again for anyone," and "ceasefire now."

Since October 7, more than a dozen protests have taken place at various locations, including an office building near Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., Grand Central Station and the Statue of Liberty in New York City, and Philadelphia's 30th Street Station. Other demonstrations were held at the Israeli consulate in Chicago, a federal building in Oakland, California, a bridge in Boston, and a highway in Durham, North Carolina.

According to a recent poll conducted by Data for Progress, a progressive think tank and polling firm, 66% of U.S. voters agree with the idea of a ceasefire. The calls for peace align with the sentiments of Jewish American protesters who are demanding an end to the violence in the region.

The relationship between America's Jewish population and Israel has always been complex. While nearly half of American Jews believe that caring about Israel is essential to their Jewish identity, a significant percentage do not consider it as important. The divide within the Jewish community has been amplified by the recent conflict in the Middle East, with different polls showing varying levels of support for Israel and criticism of its government.

In the midst of the ongoing conflict, the situation in Gaza has become dire. Israel's assault has resulted in the deaths of more than 11,000 Palestinians, according to the city's health ministry. The region's hospitals are either severely damaged or running out of fuel, leaving more than two-thirds of Gaza's population without access to clean water, as reported by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East.

The protests in the U.S. have drawn support from both Jewish and non-Jewish activists who condemn the high civilian death toll and view Israel's actions as a disproportionate response to the situation. However, not all members of the Jewish community are supportive of the protests, with some accusing the demonstrators of not representing the Jewish community as a whole and of promoting anti-Zionism, which they argue fuels antisemitism.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has criticized Jewish Voice for Peace, a group that has spearheaded many of the recent civil disobedience actions, for their stance against Israel and their alleged role in promoting antisemitism. On the other hand, Jewish Voice for Peace accuses the ADL of fueling Islamophobia and enabling the Israeli government. The divisions within the Jewish community have become increasingly apparent throughout these protests.

This conflict has also sparked international attention and debate, with prominent figures like U.S. President Joe Biden being confronted by protesters demanding immediate action towards a ceasefire. Even within Israel, there are voices of dissent, as some citizens express their concern over their government's response to the Hamas attack.

The protests in the U.S. serve as a symbolic act of support for peace and an end to the suffering endured by both Israelis and Palestinians. Individuals from various backgrounds have come together to express their outrage and solidarity, highlighting the need for dialogue and understanding in resolving the longstanding conflicts in the region.

As the demonstrations continue, activists and supporters hope that their actions will bring attention to the urgent need for a ceasefire and encourage constructive discussions towards a lasting peace agreement between Israel and Hamas.